The U.S. Park Police are requesting public assistance to identify an individual captured on camera in connection with alleged damage to the Reflecting Pool on the grounds of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. The incident reportedly occurred on Friday at approximately 3:36 p.m.
Video released by the Park Police shows an individual kneeling beside the Reflecting Pool and reaching into the water. The person is described as having dark hair, wearing a gray shirt and black shorts, and carrying a light-colored handbag.
This investigation follows an incident involving the Reflecting Pool where President Donald Trump stated that multiple individuals were arrested and others were cited for alleged damage. Trump had previously attempted to resurface the pool, which he said resulted in peeling paint and algae that altered the water's color from its intended "American Flag Blue" to a greenish hue.
During a White House briefing, Trump commented on the incident, suggesting the pool was damaged by people he described as "sick" and attributing the act to "Trump Derangement Syndrome." He indicated that water would be released from the pool to facilitate repairs. Trump had also previously speculated that fertilizer had been poured into the water, causing algae growth, and suggested that chemicals were "illegally placed in the water."
Trump also alleged that similar individuals may have damaged the surrounding grass by pouring acid on it. The Park Police have released images and video footage as part of their effort to identify the person of interest in the ongoing investigation into the destruction of government property.